Parent & Grandparent (PGP)

Method Immigration

Top 10 In-Demand Jobs in Canada for Immigrants

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Canada, known for its diverse economy and welcoming immigration policies, offers numerous job opportunities for immigrants. With a growing need for skilled workers, Canada has identified certain professions as in-demand, making it easier for immigrants to secure a spot in the Canadian job market. In this blog, we’ll explore the top 10 in-demand jobs in Canada for immigrants and the pathways to pursue them.

*1. Software Engineers and Developers*

Canada’s tech industry is booming, and software engineers and developers are in high demand. Immigrants can apply through the Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP) or the Canadian Experience Class (CEC) with a degree in computer science or a related field.

*2. Registered Nurses*

With an aging population, Canada needs registered nurses to fill the gap in healthcare services. Immigrants can apply through the FSWP or the Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) with a degree in nursing and registration with the Canadian Nurses Association.

*3. Data Scientists and Analysts*

As data becomes increasingly important for businesses, data scientists and analysts are in high demand. Immigrants can apply through the FSWP or the CEC with a degree in mathematics, statistics, or computer science.

*4. Electricians and Electrical Engineers*

Canada’s construction and infrastructure projects require skilled electricians and electrical engineers. Immigrants can apply through the FSWP or the PNP with a degree in electrical engineering or a related trade.

*5. Marketing and Sales Professionals*

With a growing economy, companies need marketing and sales professionals to drive growth. Immigrants can apply through the FSWP or the CEC with a degree in marketing, business, or a related field.

*6. Web Developers and Designers*

Canada’s digital landscape requires skilled web developers and designers. Immigrants can apply through the FSWP or the CEC with a degree in web development, graphic design, or a related field.

*7. Human Resources Professionals*

As companies expand, human resources professionals are needed to manage teams and recruitment. Immigrants can apply through the FSWP or the CEC with a degree in human resources, business, or a related field.

*8. Accountants and Financial Analysts*

Canada’s financial sector requires skilled accountants and financial analysts. Immigrants can apply through the FSWP or the CEC with a degree in accounting, finance, or a related field.

*9. Chefs and Cooks*

Canada’s food industry is growing, and skilled chefs and cooks are in demand. Immigrants can apply through the FSWP or the PNP with a degree in culinary arts or a related field.

*10. Environmental Scientists and Specialists*

With a focus on sustainability, environmental scientists and specialists are needed to develop eco-friendly solutions. Immigrants can apply through the FSWP or the CEC with a degree in environmental science, biology, or a related field.

*Pathways for Immigrants*

To pursue these in-demand jobs, immigrants can apply through various programs, including:

– Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP)

– Canadian Experience Class (CEC)

– Provincial Nominee Program (PNP)

– Quebec Skilled Worker Program (QSWP)

– Atlantic Immigration Pilot Program (AIPP)

*Conclusion*

Canada offers numerous job opportunities for immigrants in various fields. By understanding the in-demand jobs and the pathways to pursue them, immigrants can increase their chances of securing a spot in the Canadian job market. Remember to research and explore the specific requirements for each program and profession to ensure a successful application process.

#Canadalmmigration

#JobsinCanada

#ImmigrateToCanada

#CanadaJobMarket

 

Method Immigration

Changes to Canada’s Permanent Residence Fees Effective April 30, 2024

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Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has recently announced upcoming adjustments to certain permanent residence (PR) fees, set to take effect on April 30, 2024. These changes, guided by Canada’s Immigrant and Refugee Protection Regulations (IRPR), are influenced by the cumulative percentage increase to the Consumer Price Index for Canada, as reported by Statistics Canada.

What’s Changing?

The fee adjustments, applicable from April 2024 to March 2026, span across various immigration programs and impact both principal applicants and accompanying family members. Here’s a breakdown of some notable changes:

  • Right of Permanent Residence Fee: Previously set at $515 for principal applicants and accompanying spouses or common-law partners, this fee will increase to $575.
  • Federal Skilled Workers, Provincial Nominee Program, Quebec Skilled Workers, Atlantic Immigration Class and most economic pilots: Fees for principal applicants and their accompanying family members will see an increase from $850 to $950.
  • Live-in Caregiver Program and caregivers pilots: Principal applicants, along with their accompanying spouses or common-law partners and dependent children, will experience fee adjustments, with the principal applicant’s fee rising from $570 to $635.

These changes are part of IRCC’s efforts to ensure the sustainability and efficiency of Canada’s immigration system while maintaining fairness and accessibility for applicants.

Exemptions and Special Cases

IRCC also highlights exemptions from the Right of Permanent Residence (RPR) Fee for certain applicant groups, including sponsored children under the family reunification class and principal applicants under the humanitarian and compassionate consideration and public policy classes.

Furthermore, IRCC clarifies that permit holder class permanent residence applicants cannot include accompanying family members in their PR applications. Instead, individuals eligible for PR through this class must submit their own applications as principal applicants.

As Canada continues to welcome immigrants from around the world, these adjustments to permanent residence fees reflect the evolving needs of the immigration system. Whether you’re a prospective applicant or currently in the immigration process, staying informed about these changes is crucial for navigating the Canadian immigration landscape effectively.

For more information on these fee changes and other updates from IRCC, visit their official website.

Stay tuned for further updates on Canadian immigration policies and procedures.

#CanadianImmigration #PermanentResidence #IRCCUpdates #ImmigrationPolicy

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Understand Processing
Timelines for Different Pathways

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Many aspiring immigrants are eager to know how long it will take to achieve their dream of obtaining permanent residence (PR) in Canada. This blog post will provide you with an overview of the processing timelines for different immigration pathways in 2024.

Understanding Service Standards:

Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) publishes service standards for processing various immigration applications. These standards offer potential applicants a general idea of the timeframe for receiving a decision on their application.

However, it’s important to remember that:

  • Service standards are estimates and may vary depending on individual circumstances.
  • They apply only to applications with complete and accurate information and supporting documents.
  • IRCC aims to process 80% of applications within the service standards across all categories.

Processing Timelines for Different Pathways:

Economic Class Immigration:

  • Express Entry:
  • Federal Skilled Worker Program: 180 days (electronic applications)
  • Canadian Experience Class: 180 days (electronic applications)
  • Federal Skilled Trades Program: 180 days* (electronic applications)
  • Note: This standard applies only to the federal level; provincial processing times may add to the overall timeline.
  • Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs):
  • Paper applications: 11 months*
  • Electronic applications via Express Entry: 180 days*
  • Note: Both timelines may be affected by provincial processing times.
  • Quebec-Selected Skilled Worker Program:
  • Paper applications: 11 months*

Family Class Sponsorship:

  • Priority applications (spouses, common-law partners, conjugal partners, and dependent children of Canadian citizens and permanent residents): 12 months (electronic applications)

Receiving Your Permanent Resident Card:

Once your PR application is approved, you will receive a permanent resident card, which serves as both an identification and travel document. IRCC aims to process applications for initial permanent resident cards within 60 days from the completion of the PR form at a port of entry or IRCC inland office.

IRCC’s Performance Against Service Standards:

While IRCC strives to meet its service standards, their success rate varies across programs.

Here’s a glimpse into IRCC’s performance for the 2022-2023 fiscal year (April 1, 2022, to March 31, 2023):

  • Programs exceeding 80%:
  • Express Entry – Canadian Experience Class
  • Programs exceeding 60%:
  • Express Entry – Federal Skilled Worker Program
  • Family Class Sponsorship
  • Programs below 60%:
  • Provincial Nominee Programs (paper applications)
  • Quebec-Selected Skilled Worker Program

Remember: These figures are historical data and do not guarantee future performance.

While service standards provide a general idea of processing timelines, it’s crucial to manage your expectations and understand that factors beyond IRCC’s control can impact actual processing times. We recommend staying updated on IRCC’s website for the latest information and guidance on specific immigration programs and timelines.

#CanadaPR #ImmigrationCanada #ProcessingTimelines #2024Immigration

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Navigating the Path to Work in Canada: Essential Requirements and Exemptions

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If you’re considering working in Canada, you might be wondering: What do I need to work in Canada? The answer is not one-size-fits-all; it depends on various factors, including the type of job you want to pursue and the specific program you’re applying for.

Additionally, whether or not your job requires a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) can significantly affect the documents you’ll need to prepare. Let’s delve into the essential requirements and exemptions to help streamline your application process.

Determining Your Requirements

Job Type:

The first step in understanding what you need to work in Canada is identifying the nature of the job you wish to undertake. Different jobs may have varying documentation and eligibility criteria.

Program Application:

Are you applying through a specific program or stream? Each program may have its own set of requirements and application procedures. Familiarize yourself with the program’s guidelines to ensure you meet all necessary criteria.

Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA):

For certain positions, employers in Canada are required to obtain an LMIA to demonstrate that there is a need for foreign workers. Whether your job requires an LMIA will influence the documents you need to provide.

Essential Documents for Work Permit Application

In most cases, individuals applying for a work permit in Canada will need to submit one or more of the following documents:

  • LMIA Number: If your prospective job requires an LMIA, you’ll need the corresponding LMIA number provided by your employer.
  • Proof of Job Offer: Your employer must submit an offer of employment through the Employer Portal. This serves as evidence of your job placement.
  • Employment Contract or Letter: In cases where the employer is exempt from the employer compliance process, you’ll need documentation outlining the terms of your employment.
  • Proof of Certification/Qualification: To work in a specific occupation, you may need to provide evidence of your certification, accreditation, or qualifications.

LMIA Exemptions

In some instances, individuals may be exempt from obtaining an LMIA:

  • Mobilité Francophone: This initiative enables Canadian employers to hire French-speaking and bilingual workers from abroad for managerial, professional, technical occupations, and skilled trades outside of Quebec.
  • International Experience Canada (IEC): Eligible individuals aged 18 to 35 may qualify for a temporary work permit under the IEC program, facilitating international work experience in Canada.
  • Other LMIA-Exempt Work Permits: Explore additional avenues for LMIA exemptions tailored to specific circumstances and occupations.

Conclusion

Navigating the requirements to work in Canada involves understanding the intricacies of your desired job, the applicable program, and the LMIA process. By familiarizing yourself with the essential documents and potential exemptions, you can approach your work permit application with clarity and confidence. Whether you’re pursuing employment opportunities in Canada’s bustling cities or its scenic landscapes, thorough preparation is key to realizing your professional aspirations in the Great White North.

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Navigating the Horizon: a Comprehensive Overview of Canada’s Immigration Landscape in 2024

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Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) is spearheading a series of transformative changes set to significantly impact newcomers to Canada in 2024. The cornerstone of these changes is the Immigration Levels Plan for 2024-2026, where Canada aspires to embrace a total of 485,000 permanent residents (PRs) in 2024. Alongside this ambitious immigration goal, Canada is poised to roll out comprehensive updates across various programs while harnessing the power of Artificial Intelligence (AI) to streamline and enhance the overall client experience.

A pivotal aspect of these changes is reflected in the updates to the Express Entry System. In 2023, IRCC commenced category-based Express Entry draws, strategically designed to identify foreign nationals best suited to address the nation’s most pressing labor gaps and demographic needs. The selection criteria included prioritizing individuals with French language proficiency and recent work experience in key industries such as Healthcare, STEM (Science, Engineering, Technology, and Mathematics), and Trades, Transport, and Agri-Food/Agriculture.

As we look ahead to 2024, IRCC is anticipated to persist with category-based draws. However, the department has underscored its commitment to reassess the focus categories chosen in 2023, potentially modifying them based on the evolving needs of Canada’s labor market. This implies that new sectors and proficiencies may emerge as focal points, expanding the eligibility for category-based Express Entry draws in the upcoming year.

In parallel, significant developments are occurring within the Provincial Nominee Program (PNP). As a vital immigration pathway that empowers local governments to hand-select candidates to address labor market gaps, PNPs are slated to become the country’s most prominent immigration pathway in 2024, according to the latest Immigration Levels Plan. 

Provinces have received a new set of guiding principles for PNPs, and the introduction of multi-year plans from 2024 onwards is poised to enhance provincial and territorial immigration strategies, providing a more transparent allocation process.

Moreover, there’s promising news for applicants under the Parents and Grandparents Program (PGP). While Canada aimed to welcome 28,500 immigrants through the PGP in 2023, the Immigration Levels Plan for 2024 indicates an increase in PGP targets to 32,000. IRCC’s potential improvements in “intake management and the alignment of [application] inputs and outputs” may pave the way for more PGP applicants to find a new home in Canada in the coming year.

The International Student Program is undergoing significant enhancements to fortify its integrity and protect incoming foreign nationals. IRCC has launched a reformed Letter of Acceptance (LOA) verification system, requiring Designated Learning Institutions (DLIs) across Canada to confirm every applicant’s LOA directly with IRCC. This stringent yet necessary measure aims to shield prospective students from fraud, ensuring study permits are issued solely on genuine LOAs.

Furthermore, IRCC has announced a comprehensive review of the Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) program. This program is vital for many international students intending to apply for permanent residency, as the Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score favors Canadian work experience. The anticipated reforms aim to better align the PGWP with the country’s labor market needs and regional and Francophone immigration goals.

Looking beyond 2024, IRCC is committed to implementing various changes to enhance the experience and life of Canadian newcomers navigating the immigration process. A pivotal initiative involves a heightened integration of AI and technology, aiming to reduce processing times, improve tools for IRCC officers, and align with Canada’s immigration and diversity priorities. This digital transformation seeks to enhance the client experience through improved service standards, strengthened partnerships with employers and institutions relying on immigration, and increased user-friendliness via digital and virtual technologies.

To ensure a more inclusive and informed approach to immigration policies, IRCC is set to establish a new advisory board. This unique board will include individuals with lived experience in immigration, providing a platform for newcomers to influence programs and processes affecting them directly. The board’s establishment is a strategic move to strengthen policy and program development, anchoring Canada’s immigration system in a human-centric approach.

Adding another layer to these changes is the introduction of the Chief International Talent Officer (CITO). This novel role is designed to enhance the alignment between Canada’s immigration system and its national labor market and sectoral strategies. The responsibilities vested in the CITO are expected to bring about substantial changes in Canada’s annual immigration landscape, emphasizing the importance of prospective immigrants staying attuned to developments once the role is appointed.

In conclusion, the evolving landscape of Canadian immigration in 2024 encompasses a multifaceted approach, touching upon various programs and pathways. From Express Entry System modifications to PNP advancements, increased PGP targets, and enhancements in the International Student Program, these changes aim to create a more robust, efficient, and inclusive immigration system for newcomers to Canada. 

The commitment to leveraging AI and technology, establishing an advisory board, and introducing the Chief International Talent Officer signifies Canada’s dedication to staying at the forefront of global talent attraction while maintaining a human-centric perspective in its immigration policies. As the year unfolds, prospective immigrants to Canada are encouraged to stay informed about these dynamic changes that will shape their journey toward a new life in the Great White North.

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Report by Canada’s Auditor General Addresses IRCC’s Backlogs in Permanent Residence

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Addressing Challenges in PR Application Processing: Auditor General’s Report and Recommendations

The Office of the Auditor General (OAG) has recently published its report regarding the processing of permanent residence applications by Immigration Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC). This audit aimed to assess the efficiency and speed of PR application processing by IRCC.

The OAG plays a vital role in providing factual, unbiased information and expert guidance to Canada’s parliament. Parliament relies on these audits to gauge government performance and hold it accountable for public fund management.

The OAG report was initiated in response to the growing backlog of permanent, temporary, and citizenship applications during the pandemic, with more than 2 million individuals affected. This surge in applications led to significant processing delays across various categories.

The audit encompassed the processing of PR applications under different programs, such as Economic class (Federal Skilled Worker, Quebec Skilled Worker Program, Provincial Nominee Program), Family class (Sponsored spouse and Partner Program, Dependent Children program), and Humanitarian class (Government-Assisted Refugees program, Privately Sponsored Refugee program).

The report’s findings indicate that despite efforts to reduce backlogs during the pandemic, applicants for permanent residence in Canada still experienced lengthy waiting times, with refugee program applicants being the most affected.

Refugees faced particularly long waiting periods, with privately sponsored refugees waiting an average of 30 months for a decision, and overseas spouses or common-law partners waiting 15 months.

Additionally, the report highlights that IRCC assigned application workloads to regional offices without adequately assessing the office’s resources. Disparities in workload were evident, such as the workload in the Dar es Salaam (Tanzania) office being five times greater than the Rome (Italy) office, despite comparable staffing levels.

The report also noted differences in application backlog size and age based on applicants’ country of citizenship, with certain offices being consistently under-resourced for years.

Furthermore, the OAG criticized IRCC for not effectively monitoring the implementation of its automated eligibility-assessment tool, failing to assess its impact on processing times and address any disparities for applicants.

The report presents six key recommendations for improving processing times and backlog clearance:

  •                         Establish clear and achievable service standards for all PR programs, including refugee programs, and provide online information on processing times.
  •                         Address differential wait times in all PR programs and collect race-based and ethnocultural information to tackle racial disparities.
  •                         Evaluate backlogged applications to identify and address processing delays within the department’s control.
  •                         Ensure that application workloads align with available resources across IRCC offices.
  •                         Reduce disparities in processing times related to the use of automated decision-making tools and allocate sufficient resources for manual processing when needed.
  •                         Implement online application portals for refugee programs and advance the Digital Platform Modernization initiative.

In response, Immigration Minister Marc Miller welcomed the report, emphasizing that significant progress has been made in reducing the backlog and improving processing times.

IRCC aims to process 80% of applications within service standards, with the remaining 20% taking longer due to complexity. Express Entry applications should be processed within six months, while family-class sponsorships are expected to take a year.

As of August 31, there were 2,198,700 applications in inventory across all lines of business, with 45% of them in backlog. Economic class, Express Entry, and spousal applications showed varying levels of backlog.

The backlog primarily resulted from the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, with office closures affecting processing. Despite this, IRCC continued to accept applications, leading to a significant backlog.

IRCC has since increased processing capacity through digitization, staff recruitment, and automation. The number of applications in inventory has gradually decreased, but it remains above 2 million.

The ambitious Immigration Levels Plan has contributed to the high volume of applications, as Canada aims to admit a significant number of permanent residents in the coming years. The new plan for 2024-2026 is expected to maintain or even increase these targets.

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Canada Sees Significant Increase in Permanent Residents Through Parents and Grandparents Program (PGP)

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Canada has seen a significant increase of almost 60% in the number of permanent residents arriving through the Parents and Grandparents Program (PGP) in January 2023 compared to January 2022. Specifically, 2,065 new permanent residents were welcomed in January 2023, whereas only 1,300 were welcomed in January 2022. Canada aims to bring 28,500 permanent residents under the PGP in 2023, while in 2022, 27,255 permanent residents arrived in Canada through this program, marking a 132% increase from 2021.

Under the Immigration Level Plans 2023-2025, Canada plans to welcome 465,000 permanent residents in 2023, with 106,500 permanent residents coming through the family sponsorship category, which includes spouses, common-law partners, children, and parents and grandparents under the PGP. In January 2023, Canada welcomed 50,885 new permanent residents, which is a significant increase of almost 44% compared to the 35,450 newcomers in January of the previous year. So far, Canada has welcomed 13,000 new permanent residents through spousal/children sponsorship and the PGP.

To be eligible for the PGP, Canadian citizens and permanent residents must sponsor their parents and grandparents to immigrate to Canada. Applicants must meet several criteria, including completing an Interest to Sponsor form, being at least 18 years old, residing in Canada, exceeding the minimum income level, signing an undertaking to financially support the sponsored family member for 20 years, and repaying any social assistance benefits paid to the sponsored family members.

The Super Visa is an alternative to the PGP, allowing parents and grandparents of Canadian citizens to visit Canada for up to five years without having to renew their status. Those with a Super Visa can apply for an extension to remain in Canada as a visitor for up to seven years and enter Canada multiple times for up to ten years. The Super Visa is available all year round and is an option for parents and grandparents who require a Temporary Resident Visa for entry into Canada. Additional documentation, such as a letter of invitation and proof of medical insurance coverage, is required for Super Visa applicants.

#canadaimmigration #canada #canadavisa #immigration #studyincanada #canadapr #expressentry #immigrationconsultant #ielts #studyabroad #visa #studentvisa #workpermit #immigrationcanada #studyvisa #pnp #immigratetocanada #immigrationlawyer #permanentresidency #canadaworkpermit #migratetocanada #expressentrycanada #toronto #visaconsultants #canadastudyvisa #workincanada #immigrationservices #australia #immigrationconsultants #immigrationtocanada

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Parents and Grandparents Program will reopen on a first-come, first-served basis

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If you were waiting for a great opportunity to sponsor your parents or grandparents to Canada, now is the time! Canada will reopen the Parents and Grandparents Sponsorship Program in seven days. The program will come with some updates in the application intake process. Keep reading to know all about the news on the application process and how to become a candidate.

Starting on January 28, 2019, at noon (EST), the interest to sponsor form submissions will be accepted on a first-come, first-served basis. The application intake process will happen for a limited sponsor a family membertime and it will replace the old lottery system. Once the limit of form submissions is reached, the form will no longer be available, and no new submissions will be accepted. Potential sponsors will be invited to apply based on the order IRCC received the interest to sponsor forms.